O sons of men, how long will you turn my glory into shame, love vanity, and seek falsehood?
David addresses those who were dishonoring the calling and position he had received from God. The phrase “You turn my glory into shame” may refer to the humiliation of his royal honor, yet in a deeper sense it shows the human tendency to despise the gifts of God. The enemies loved “vanity” and sought “falsehood.” Vanity is what seems brilliant but has no real worth. Falsehood can include false accusations, deceptive promises, and the illusion of success apart from God. The question “How long?” is at once a rebuke and an invitation to repentance. God is patient, but a sinful course should not continue without end. The believer also must examine whether he is exchanging eternal glory for passing approval. Every desire that draws us away from the truth leaves us empty in the end. True honor comes from God and is established in the truth.